Essential Equipment by Phase
Tablet & Software
An iPad with Apple Pencil (Procreate) or a drawing tablet like a Wacom Intuos/XP-Pen with a computer running Photoshop or Clip Studio Paint. A stylus with pressure sensitivity is essential.
Reference Libraries
Access to a color palette tool (Coolors.co) and a photo reference library (ArtStation, Pinterest boards) for studying real light and material behavior.
Portfolio Hosting
A free ArtStation or Behance account for hosting and presenting your final portfolio piece to the wider illustration community.
Recommended Channels
Sinix Design
Clear, structured tutorials on digital painting fundamentals — brushes, color, and shading explained simply.
Brad Colbow
In-depth software and technique comparisons, useful for choosing and mastering your specific tools.
Aaron Rutten
Focused technique breakdowns on shading, color, and painterly rendering for intermediate and advanced students.